Migraine Sufferers Should Practice Safe Computing

Work Zones On Your Desk
http://www.osha.gov

It is important for pain sufferers to practice safe computing. Using your computer with improper posture, incorrect keyboard and monitor setup, or even the wrong type of chair, can cause pain and stress to anyone, especially a chronic pain or migraine sufferer. If you are a chronic pain sufferer and a blogger it is especially important to make sure that your blogging does not contribute to your torment.

Everyone should make their work setting as comfortable as possible. Many times our bodies will trick us, make us feel like we are comfortable, when we really are not. This is why computer users get sore necks, back pain, eye strain, and carpel tunnel. These things can take time to develop in normal people, but suffering from chronic pain is anything but normal.

Most of us buy our computer furniture based on price or looks, but not ergonomics. It's important to remember that standard furniture cannot accommodate the needs of everyone. If you are taller, you may need to have your work surface raised somewhat; a shorter person may need a footrest.

The desktop work surface should have a matte finish to minimize glare or reflections. If a fixed-height desk is used, add a keyboard tray that adjusts vertically to provide added adaptability. Desk surfaces that are too high or too low may lead to awkward postures, such as extended arms to reach the keyboard, and raised shoulders. Limited space on the work surface may cause users to place components and devices in undesirable positions. This placement may lead to awkward postures as you reach for a pointer/mouse or look at a monitor that is placed to the side. Always align the monitor so that it is at distance of at least 20 inches (50 cm) and right in front of you to have the best viewing angle.

The area beneath the desk should be clean and tidy to provide the user’s legs with plenty of room and allow for stretching. Clearance for the legs, under the desktop, should generally be between 20-28 inches (50-72 cm) high and 24 inches (61cm)in depth.

If you share the work area with others, go ahead and spring for adjustable furniture. This information is not all inclusive of changes you can make to prevent your computing area from hurting you. You should go to http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/ to view all of the recommended workstation configuration. The pain you save may be your own.